So much goes into planning a trip. So much fun in my personal opinion! However, if you’re not a big fan of research like I am, what are some great tips for planning a trip that will be completely awesome? Look no further, my friends, here we go!

1. Pick your destination. I know, no brainer, right, but depending on who you are going to travel with, this could prove to more difficult than originally thought. I have first hand experience with this. We’re planning on a trip for my parents 45th (!) anniversary. First thought was Napa. Then San Fran, then Miami and now we’re looking at Sarasota or Tampa. We still don’t have a firm place set.

2. Where to stay? Choices are endless. A few things to think about, though. Do you want to eat out all the time, or do you want force that one person in your family, usually the mother person, to cook dinner on vacation? Thereby robbing them of a true vacation? That’s why I say if staying less than two weeks, eschew the idea of renting a house or an apartment.

3. Choosing the right accommodations? Now that we’ve narrowed it down to the destination and where we’re going to stay, we need to look as to where IN the destination to stay. First place I turn to is Trip Advisor. For those of you who don’t know, this is where people rate hotels or B&B’s in your chosen location. I find it’s the most beneficial place to check to make sure you’re not staying in an area that’s less than desirable.

4. When to buy my plane ticket? This is the hardest part of the planning stage. You don’t want to buy the ticket too far in advance because then it’s expensive. You don’t want to buy it too close, because then it’s expensive. There are a number of websites that can help with this, such as Kayak and Hopper (also an app). You can set alerts that will also tell you when flights have gone down. Use this. You will thank me.

5. What should I do when I’m there? My favorite part of all! Honestly, I get so excited about this part. The internet is, of course, your friend. And then there’s asking friends if they know cool things or places to go and do. Trip Advisor is another great resource. If you’re going to Europe, my go-to resource is Rick Steves books. They’re full of such great tips and tricks, places to stay, museums and hidden gems… It’s honestly the only book I buy when I am headed on a trip of Europe!

You can take these ideas and run with them. They’re easy and will get you going on planning ASAP! And let’s face it, that’s what counts. The planning will allow you to be secure in knowing you’ve planned well for an awesome vacation! So, have fun friends!